Week #26 - Holy/Holey

Hello from Mexico. So last week my mother was a bit confused about my new companion. Apparently she found a picture of he and I on the mission Facebook page, and he was "tagged" with a different name than what I had said for my companion. But in the picture,  that is Elder Muñiz! Mexico is a bit different than the US, concerning names. In the States, we usually have a first, middle, and last name. Here, they have "nombres" (names) and "apellidos" (last names). How it usually is, they have two nombres, and two apellidos. Like when a couple gets married in the US, the women changes her last name to match the man's. But here, they don't change names when they marry. They give their apellidos paternos (apellido from the father) to their children. Like my first compañero, his name is Raul Gibran Gutierrez Dominguez. "Raul" and "Gibran" are his nombres, "Gutierrez" is the apellido from his father, and "Dominguez" is the apellido from his mother. They use the apellido paterno as we use our last names. Haha yeah.. It is cool.  

Well, I am coming up on the six month mark of my mission already... it is starting to show. Meaning in the clothes I have. All my white shirts and pants appear to be in good shape, but socks, shoes, and garments...they are dying. Almost every sock has a hole. Some of my garments are starting to get holes too. And even my Rockport shoes, the right shoe now has a hole. But at least with the shoes, I think there is hope to save them. Mexico has a ton of these little shoe repair shops, maybe I can take them there, and it would be easily (and cheaply) fixed. Maybe. Well, I guess we all knew that a mission is a "holey" experience. (Mommy the shoes can be fixed, as on the Mexico Mission Mom's page someone said you now needed a PERMIT to get shoes across the border!)

On the subject of clothes, in Forjadores, next to our house, we had a member who ran a laundrymat. So they washed all my clothes (garments included) for 25 pesos, which is pretty cheap. Now, today we gave our clothes to some laundrymat (excluding the garments this time) and we have to wash our garments by hand, because we don't have a washing machine. Hand washing ... that was a new and exhausting experience.

I had misplaced my name tag and had to pay for a new one. Then the very next day, during personal study, I wanted to look up a word in the dictionary. When I picked it up, something was inside it. My name tag! I was so happy yet so mad all at once. Of course I would find it after I already paid for a new one. Oh well, all is good. 

We found a little grey puppy, which was obviously homeless, because it was eating garbage and super skinny. We went quickly to a tienda to buy some dog food to give it. So that was a little service for the day. 

On Saturday, there was a baptism for Almecatla 2. Normally you go to other baptisms with your investigators, but we had no one. The other missionaries were glad that we were there though, as they had to sing in the program, and they had us sing with them. 

That is it for this week ...

 There was no explanation with this picture ;)

*** Step Stats ***

Monday, August 10 - 17482

Tuesday, August 11 - 17569

Wednesday, August 12 - 15698

Thursday, August 13 - 15261

Friday, August 14 - 17779

Saturday, August 15 - 16770

Sunday, August 16 - 6313

... pretty good steps for no official "exercise" from an Elder. Landon did mention playing a little basketball and soccer with the youth, as well as taking "the long way" on a way to an investigator's house (going for 30 minutes only to end up a short distance from where they had started). More steps on the pedometer!  The little boys were back to Gene Fullmer this week (the week before the gym floor was being refinished) but now the trampoline needs a new mat (bouncing at home is another big step earner for the Blackham boys).  Uncle Shane managed to edge over Mr. Missionary, with Uncle Chris and Aunt Wendy close behind ...

*** Between Brothers ***

Dear Landon, today we went wave running, but on the way there we gave Andy away. The guy that we gave Andy to, would clip their wings so they don't fly away because he makes money off them. Suzie+Roxy= SO MUCH FUN. I went about 60 mph. Keaton and I hit a gigantic wave. And Callahan and I did the thing you and I did, we jumped off. One time I pushed him off and then he tried pull me off but he didn't. Also one time I was in the water and I was trying to get on but Callahan kept shaking it then he fell off so I got on. We are finally going to go Park city!! But not in the Summer! We all went to Maga's house to sleep in tents in the backyard. But right before we went sleep, we watched a movie called "Paddington" But I wasn't able to sleep, I fell asleep at 12:15 A.M. Well that is it for this week. Love, ya. Love, Colt

Dear Landon, one more week until school is back. There is two bad reasons to go back to school, and two good reasons (for me). The bad reasons are that I'm going to have to do math, science, writing, etc, and I'm in a different classes than ALL of my best friends, seriously. The two good reasons is that I will get to see a lot of my friends again, and my birthday is in the first week of school. We finally went to go wave running, but it will be the only time that we go all summer. And the saddest thing about going to the lake, is that on the way, we gave Andy away to the person we bought Alex and Pedro from. We had a little sleepover at Maga's house from Friday to Saturday. But I could not really sleep because of the tents, they were uncomfortable. And before going asleep, we watched a movie called Paddington, and made a little fire to toast mallows, and cook hot dogs. While we were roasting the marshmallows, Sam got his on fire and kept bringing it toward me. Then I blew it out, and he got mad and whacked it at me. I did not hurt or anything, but it took me by surprise. Now Joy is sleeping downstairs again with me and Colton. The first night wasn't bad at all, because I didn't even know where she was. We went to KFC today with everyone except Keaton. But now, I do not feel very well.  Love, Cooper

Dear Landon, we gave Andy to the guy we got Pedro and Alex from. We just wanted her to get the chance to be more social. It was sad. No ducky time tonight. We moved the wee kitty back down into the lil ones' room. She made this big old brown sckfing in my room and I was just done. I'm very sure that the peoples in China were able to smell it. We finally went wave running for the first time this summer! It was a lot funner than I remembered. However, we did not go tubing. Tubing is lyfe. On Friday we went to Maga's house to have a sleepover/campout in her backyard. Everyone slept outside except for Maga, Ana, Amare, Sam, Courtney, and Clay. We watched a movie at night and I fell asleep after the first 10 minutes of it. I think it was the movie that actually bored me to sleep. It was a movie called Paddington about a bear who is lost or something. I don't know I was asleep. Dad woke me up after the movie to move me into my tent with Will. Wasn't very hard falling asleep in a breezy tent outside after already been asleep. Dad said that I was making myself pretty obvious that I had fallen asleep during the movie. Idk lol. Everyone is at KFC right now except for me at 7:17 pm. I wasn't hungry and they're just really there to annoy Cal. Idk if Cal told you, but Ben burned himself at KFC and had to go to the hospital. There's now a big bandage on his neck where he got burned. Dad said that we're gonna go to Park City!!!!... after the first week of school. We're going to be staying in a condo which'll be cool. It'll be mine and Cooper's vacation birthday funtime!!!!... with homework. Probably not too much, though. Just disclosures and more disclosures. I haven't even got my schedule yet. Oh! And Dad got a selfie-stick. So yeah... a sort-of vacation-less summer I like to call it. Wuv, Keaton

Dear Landon, school is almost here and I'm not ready. Amanda finally met Clay and it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. We went on a hike to Cecret Lake with the family. It was really fun, which is weird because I don't like hikes very much. We also went waverunning which was really fun. It was weird without you though. It's not quite the same. I can tell Colton missed you because he kept mentioning what you guys would do when you went on the waverunners together. I tried to do everything he wanted to do. I didn't get to go to the campout because I had work and by the time I was off they were heading off to bed, so I didn't bother going. Sammy is talking pretty well now though. He has pretty much everybody's names down. That's pretty much all that happened this week.  And to answer your question me and Amanda have been dating for almost 11 months now. I miss you a lot. Love you. Callahan

• Dear Colton: That it kinda sad to give away Andy.. 60 mph?! By yourself?! Shoot.. That is pretty fast! Haha, yeah, pretty fun times with Susie and Roxy.. I miss them. Haha why so excited for Park City..? Not like it is Puebla... :p haha! "Paddington"? Sounds exciting.... Not really. Ha! Sounds like a good week!
• Dear Cooper: Why are you going to be in all different classes than all your friends? Haha don't worry too much about school it is a good experience, and you learn a lot! Yeah.. So sad that you guys gave away Andy.. But it is probably better for her to be with other duckies. Haha sounds like a fun little activity with Maga and all the cousins! Yikes! Sam is a little young to be roasting marshmellows all by himself! Haha I am guessing that you are hoping that she doesn't poop in your room too.. Haha good luck!
• Dear Keaton: That is sad to bid farewell to Andy.. At least she will have the opportunity to know other duckies. I honestly laughed so hard when I saw the word "sckfing".. Ha! Yup.. un poopsie, and it is over.. Wow. That is pretty sad, the first and only time to go waverunning during the summer! I am going to guess that the movie has chosen by Maga. Or Addie I guess. Hard to find a show to please everyone, right? Park City is pretty nice, hope you have a good time!
• Dear Callahan: You can never be fully ready for school, right? Clay and Amanda finally met?! Haha I don't think that Clay ever met one of my girlfriends.. But that is good it wasn't that bad. Haha hikes are actually fun sometimes.. Yeah.. I really miss waverunning.. It was a really fun activity to always do together. Doesn't sound like you missed out on anything with the movie at the cousin campout at least. Well I miss you a lot too bro.

Week #25 - Arrived Alive in Almecatla

Well that is it folks. My days in Forjadores are finished. 

I am now in la zona Tlaxcala Este, area Almecatla 1A, and it has been quite the change.. I now realize how spoiled I was in Forjadores. Concerning help and support from members, easy work in a small area, food, and safety. Never worried about, nor complained about these things in Forjadores. But here in Almecatla, it is a bit different. The living conditions are a lot more humble (food too), our area is HUGE, we have very few members to work with in our area, few investigators, and it isn't the safest place.

We have a part of our area that is called "Tenancingo" that is actually banned for us because of "so much iniquity" (prostitution, gangs, drugs.. THAT kind of stuff..). My compañero actually carries this flashlight, which is also a tazer.. But not for people. For the dogs. We have got some not-so-friendly dogs in our area. My compañero has actually been bit already. 

But now about my compañero! His name is Elder Muñiz, from Mexico, and he has 6 months in the mission. So far, I have honestly really enjoyed this companionship! We talk a lot. In English and Spanish! To start our companion study, one of us will usually have some question concerning the doctrine. Then we talk, talk, talk, and talk some more, until 2 hours later, we realize we should go work! I really enjoy that about him, the fact that it is easy to talk and work with him. And with him, he has had one change here in Almecatla. But since the area is so big, still doesn't know the area that well.

But that is fine. We will be learning together how to best work in Almecatla. Surely I can't complain about the change I have experienced here, because I was begging and praying for a change. Now I got it, and I am going to make the best of it.  The Lord lives, and only by his perfect Gospel and doctrine, can we achieve eternal life.  I will let you all now how it will go the next week here in..... ALMECATLA! Les amo!

 The meeting where the changes are announced. A LOT of anticipation. 

100+ missionaries in the same room in 90° weather with no air-conditioning ;)

Elder Dansie (Landon's companion at the airport as they left Utah) 

is now paired with Landon's former companion in Forjadores

Riding in the back of a truck to the new location ... 

there are two companionships in in Almecatla, 

one of the others is Elder Galaz (my brother!) 

 Ahhh, Krispie Creme Donuts! Just missing the milk!

*** Step Stats ***

Monday, August 3 - 20054
Tuesday, August 4 - 7842
Wednesday, August 5 - 27359
Thursday, August 6 - 18734
Friday, August 7 - 26629
Saturday, August 8 - 12193
Sunday, August 9 - 10553

Elder Landon Blackham is in the #2 spot! That's his highest average since back in May (and this Wednesday can't quite beat the 29k high from that week). Cooper has definitely been trying to raise his ranking, and it's worked! After a family gathering, I got Uncle Shane on the list, and here he is in the Top10!

*** Between Brothers ***

Dear Landon, we all want Andy to fly away because she's all alone. But she just can't make all the way over the wall. I had to go to the dentist this week and I got a numb cheek. Ugh. I hate getting numb cheeks. We made cinnamon rolls, but with the numb cheek it wasn't so good. We went on a hike. I didn't like so much because it too long. We went swimming a couple of times. But we did not play basketball because they were cleaning the gym, I didn't even have a basketball game. FNAF 4 has finally come out for the ipod. It is really hard but I got to 5 A.M. We went to go see a movie called Ant-Man, and it was the best movie ever. It was so funny. And the main character was Mike from Friends! The funniest guy in my opinion was a person named Luis. But the best thing was, the movie theater went to was the best! It had chairs that reclined! I almost fell asleep during the movie. On the way home from the movie, we went to Krispie Kreme and only got 2 dozen donuts. (All glazed) We went to Utah Olympic Park to see the wall of Topia. It was so awesome. It is so high. A bit of people would be able to climb to the top! And jump off into the water. One of Dad's work friend's friend was in it. He got far up but not all the way. There was also a treadmill but it was for climbing, instead of being horizontal is was vertical. That is the rest of it for this week. Love ya. Love, Colt

Dear Landon, well, Andy is still here all alone. I really want her to fly away so she could be with other duckies, but I do not see it coming soon. And yesterday, we all went on a big hike to a suspension bridge. It was about a mile long, and after the hike, we went to a cupcake store. I was pretty excited, but dad had forgot his wallet with his racquetball stuff, so we weren't able to go. But we finally went to go see Ant-Man! It was a lot funnier than I expected, and what made it better was the theater. There were reclining chairs inside which were very comfortable. Then after that, we went to a Krispy Kreme's, but the hot light wasn't on... Also, FNAF 4 has come out to Ipod, so I bought it and I can now play it. It was a pretty boring week without basketball at Gene Fullmer.

 Love, Cooper

Dear Landon, sleeping with the kitty has gotten easier every night... sort of. It was a really boring week since we couldn't play basketball. We still went swimming twice, though. Callahan has procrastinated his summer homework of reading "Scarlet Letter" and learning vocabulary words. We saw Ant-Man starring Paul Rudd (aka Mike from friends). It was really cool and took my number one spot for my-favorite-movies-seen-this-year. In close second is still Inside Out. Ant-Man was just too funny and really cool. The theater we went to was one in Layton that had the seats as leather recliners! I want to see all movies there now. It was really comfortable. Dad, Colton, and I went to watch a climbing competition in Park City. It was so cool to watch the climbers get to the 50 foot tall Walltopia! The wall was slanted, too. So the climbers pretty much had to climb upside down! There was this one part where the guys had to JUMP from one rock to the other! It was called a dino. We still haven't gone up to Park City as a vacation yet. Not sure if we will. So yeah... Wuv, Keaton

Dear Landon, the Scarlet Letter is the worst book ever, even though I've only read one chapter. It's still awful. I hate summer homework, it makes me want to cry. Yesterday I went on a hike with Amanda in Sandy which was fun. There was a small waterfall which was cool. It was a short hike, only took about an hour, not including the drive. I worked about 20 hours this week so between the last 3 weeks I made around $375. I'm just making my way to Orlando. We also had cinnamon rolls this week and they are so amazing. We had more leftover because you're not here. I ate quite a few. And then we went to the AMC Theater which has reclining chairs, it was pretty cool. We saw Ant-Man which was really funny. It was one of my favorite movies. I haven't seen pretty much any this summer besides, Minions and Ant-Man tops Minions. Pretty much all that happen. Love you bro. Callahan

• Dear Colton: Another busy week for you guys! That is a bummer that Andy hasn't flown off yet.. Sucks to be alone. Ay! Cavities are so much fun, aren't they? Haha I guess you have to brush better! Oh no.. Cinnamon rolls.. Ay. I miss them dearly. Haha I was with a kid, and he has this tablet thing, and he was asking me for suggestions for games, and I actually suggested FNAF. He said that he played the others, but didn't know about the fourth. Ant Man? Can't say that movie interests me much.. But I do like funny movies, and the actor (Paul.... something..) is good as well! So maybe some day. Guess what! I had a Krispie Kreme donut today! It was the bomb, I was just missing my milk.. That is so cool! A climbing treadmill! I want one! 
• Dear Cooper: Poor poor Andy.. No fun being alone. Doing hikes, huh? That is fun, but super hard also.. Haha. Dang, that sucks.. Dad forgot his wallet? Haha it shouldn't have been such a boring week, sounds like you guys did a lot of stuff! Basketball isn't life.. :P ( I actually bought fútbol (soccer) jerseys of Mexico! They are so awesome!) Get out there and LIVE!
• Dear Keaton: When I read your letter I had a lot better understanding of what happened with the climbing competition in Park City. Sounds like a blast! Sure, you have to be strong as heck, but I love climbing! (Colton and Cooper say some of the same things, but don't describe it very well.) Haha procrastination.. One of my favorite words.. Paul Rudd! I knew his first name was Paul, but I forgot the last name. Park City isn't really a vacation.. But oh well.
• Dear Callahan: The Scarlet Letter... Oh how I hated that book. Don't worry, I know your pain. It is pretty horrid. But I honestly can't remember if I read the whole book. Doubt it. Ha! Haha you are one of THOSE couples.. Going on hikes. Just kidding, a hike is a good date. I just want to know how long have you two been dating? As far as work, wait until you're working double that. 40 is the norm for "working folks" As a teenager, that is surprising that Dad and midgets have seen more movies than you this summer! Me? Haven't seen anything. Haha. Got to wait until after to see everything!

A Forjadores Photo Farewell

... as Changes are eminent, it's a time for reflection and capturing friends and families in photos, to remember as he moves on ...

Farewell to the Garcia Dominguez familia.

Farewell to the Casiano familia.

Farewell to Hna. Maura Ayala

Farewell to the Sanchez Estevez familia

Farewell to Hno. Ricardo Sanchez

Farewell to Hno. Daniel Sanchez.

Farewell to the Sanchez Michimani familia. 

They gave me a bottle of MARTINELLI! Super awesome!

Farewell to the Bautista Aguilar familia.

The streets outside of our casa

There it is. Epic last picture in Forjadores.

Farewell Forjadores

Week#24 - Last Week in Forjadores

Well, it is the last week of the change... and that is when you hear if you have changes or not. On Saturday, I did get the call. At first, I was soo happy to finally leave Forjadores, because we have just had no work here, but now, that I have to say goodbye to everyone, those I have known since my first day in Puebla ... that is the hard part.

Sunday, during our meeting with the ward mission leader, I had a moment of reflection. For the meeting, we need to make lists; the investigators we have, and the plans that we have made for them. The first two on the list are investigators that we've had since we first arrived. Both from part member families, and both have known the church for a long time. So I just thought about them, wondering if they have really progressed at all since I got here, or if I was going to leave them the same way I found them.

With one hermana, at first, she wanted nothing with the church, and only went for her husband. But now, she wants to be baptized! So with her, I know that she is better now than before.

Tthe other hermano, we've worked with a lot since I got here, but he does not appear to be progressing. He says that he believes everything, but won't keep commitments. I was feeling a little down about that... but when we started talking about him, the sister missionaries of our ward said that they ate with him recently (he is the owner of Tomato's pizza) and they said when they talked with him, that he would only talk about me. One of the hermanas said "Really, he LOVES you!" Then our ward mission leader, who is a good friend of his, said that he also talked with him recently, and he told him "I've been thinking... and I think that it is time to close on Sundays, so I can go to church." That was always our biggest problem with him, working Sundays. So yeah, hearing that made me cry. Knowing that I personally had an effect on this hermano. No, I won't be there to see his baptism, but at least I had a part in his conversion.

I have had a good time here in Forjadores, but it is now time to go elsewhere, where the Lord needs me. I testify that this is the work of the Lord! And it will ever press forward. Les amo.

Mi compa bought this hat. 

When asked "What does the B mean?" I said "BLACKHAMBoy"

*** Step Stats ***

Monday, July 27 - 9545

Tuesday, July 28 - 12162

Wednesday, July 29 - 27244

Thursday, July 30 - 8473

Friday, July 31 - 10212

Saturday, August 1 - 5264

Sunday, August 2 - 11645

Wednesday, it was district meeting, then I went with Elder Galaz to his area of Cuexomate. Walking, walking, walking all day in the blazing sun! The other days, the steps weren't great, as I have been battling a cold this week. 

Here at home, Mommy is happy to have regaining the #1 spot! Then there are the Blackham brothers staying very active this summer. Lots of time spent at the local gym practicing basketball skills. Grandpa W's Fitbit hasn't been working, but after a quick check up last night, hopefully it will be registering steps and we can actually see where he stands. Where is Grayson? It is hard to make Landon's top 10 ... there is a bit of competition from the Blackham family and friends. 

*** Between Brothers ***

Dear Landon, this week, I didn't do much stuff. Though I did go to Seven Peeks with Randon for his birthday. We had a lot of fun. The ride I liked most was, Shotgun Falls. But one time I went on it, we got stuck at the beginning of the ride so we didn't get any air. Yesterday, we went to Uncle Derek's house for pizza. When I was there, Annie "lit me on fire" with a fake candle so I said "stop, drop and, roll!" So I started rolling around on the carpet. On our way home, we stopped at Caballas and looked at some stuff. There was this place in Caballas that made fudge. We were able to have samples of the fudge. I got cookies and cream, Mom got Rolo, Cooper got milk chocolate and Keaton got Reeses. This morning when we let the ducks out, Alex and Pedro flew away... Now Andy is all alone again. That's it for this week. Love ya. Love, Colt

Dear Landon, it is August already! Time really does fly when you are having a bunch of fun. Like going to Gene Fullmer, bowling, on the tramp, and time with our pets. Speaking of pets, we now have one ducky again. None of them died, but Alex and Pedro have flown away. So Andy (yet again) is alone in her pen. And we also have not spent some of our time letting Oreo and Joy in the same room. But I still really think, Oreo wants to be the main pet of the family, and he still is. We all went to uncle Derek's house yesterday, and ate some pizza. But before we went there, me, Jacob, and Colton were playing on Jacob's hoop playing "Tornado." Anyways, when I went to drive in to the basket, I rolled my ankle really badly. There was a big bruise on my foot, and it makes it hard to walk around. And after going to their house for pizza, we went to a store called Capella's. It is probably a little bigger, or smaller than Scheels. There was a little aquarium, lots of hunting/fishing supplies, and a place that had some sample fudge. And FNAF 4 still has not come out to the Ipod, so I still can't play, but I cannot wait for it. Love, Cooper

Dear Landon, Gene Fullmer's basketball court is going to be closed this week to redo the floor. That means this week will be really boring since I can't go anywhere to play basketball. The kitty is getting a little less devilish. Sure, her bites and scratches are getting more painful, but they're becoming less frequent. Mom said that we might switch her to Cal's room for a few nights so I can get a good night's rest. We went to Derek and Daniel's yesterday, and I found out that Daniel is pregnant. I asked mom because I thought that they couldn't... you know, but they did. They specifically said SHE was a happy surprise. Yes. Ani, Leila, and new little-baby-girl-Westra. Mine and Cooper's birthdays are coming up (and yours). I already got a new Indoor ball as an early birthday to use at Gene Fullmer so we wouldn't have to wait for Cal to get home so I can take MY ball back! That he steals! I hope that I actually get something I want for my birthday that isn't pity food. I hate pity food. So yeah... you know. Wuv, Keaton

Dear Landon, I had an 11 and a half hour shift yesterday and I'm so glad its over. I had 3 other shifts last week as well, no Real games. Two of the ducks flew away as you already have heard. Andy is the lone duck at last. It was Mason's birthday on Aug. 1st which me and Ben surprised him at midnight with some presents. He's freakin 17 which is weird. I didn't get to do any of the fun stuff the family did this week. I guess I did go to the mall with them to get pretzel/pretzel bites which are amazing. Mom has had me take the boys bowling, and I'm amazing at bowling as well. Gene Fullmer's basketball court is closed this week so I can't go play, I might go to Marv Jensen just to get some shots up. I'm semi-excited for school to start, I'm just not excited for conditioning with the basketball team. It's like death but worse. We went to Grandma's for our brunch thing that we do each month.  That's pretty much all you need to know. Love and miss you bro, Callahan

• Dear Colton: Is Seven Peaks fun? I have never been there! You saw Randon too? I bet that was pretty fun to see him again! Ah, Derek's house is super nice! You mean Cabellas? I have tried their fudge, and it is super good! They duckies flew away?! What!? Aww. That is sad. You don't need to miss them too much. You can always have others. 
• Dear Cooper: hat statement sure is true! Time does fly when you are having fun. Sounds like you guys have had a TON of fun! Which is awesome! I heard from Colton, that the other two ducks have flown away.. That is sad for Andy.. But soon she will learn to fly too, and be with other duckies. Ouch... Rolling ankles suck. We played some basketball today with the other missionaries, and one misionera stubbed her finger on the ball (I can imagine you know how that feels.) After that, she was done. Haha. Keep having a good time while summer lasts.
• Dear Keaton: Shoot... No basketball at Gene Fullmer for a week! I can imagine that being hard for you guys. Haha. Does Joy bite and scratch you during the night? Haha what?! A girl?! There wasn't supposed to be any new cousins while I am gone!! Oh well, I am sure that they are super happy. Sounds like a good week.. Keeping have a blast!
• Dear Callahan: Eleven hours, that is a long shift. Sounds a lot of fun. Surprise party at midnight?  I would like my birthday present to be the privilege to sleep....Haha. That is super weird that Mason is 17! I miss pretzels a lot! That is one thing that I have never seen here in Mexico. Good luck with the classes that you are going to take, it will be a ton of fun! Difficult, but fun! Keep the good times going.

Week #23 - Forjadores Food

First of all, I should say forgive me for not writing the past couple weeks. With not much happening, that means that there isn't a lot to write.. The days keep going by, here in Forjadores. This week was a lot better than the last. More lessons, more work. With this week, we've had a lot more focus on the less actives of the ward. So we went with every member that is listed in the ward, including some inactives that we have never seen! We also plan on visiting every member in the ward at some point, hoping to obtain a reference from every one of them. 

We did get haircuts last P-day (compare this weeks picture to last weeks, I was a little shaggy). We played  Uno at one of our gatherings. I didn't win, but it was a lot of fun. We observed a couple of the sisters during language study.  I'm glad Hma Guadarrama isn't my teacher, she is really tough! Every time Hma Ibarra would mess up, Hma Guadarrama would give a shriek of frustration. It was pretty hilarious to watch. As usual, there has been rain. Lots of rain. One day it was practically a monsoon. Really, the rain was nuts. 

A little about the food here ... we had some lasagna this week, it was great. A family that works at a Chinese restaurant invited us over there. It was a buffet. Lets just say we ate very well! I had a ton of fried rice, shrimp and beef. They also had some wonderful watermelon, probably the best I've ever had. Then I had my first fortune cookie in Spanish, which is cool. Last week, we went to Tomatos Pizza. The family we were to eat with were the owners. We were a little hesitant, because is was Sunday! But what could we do, that was lunch (or we wouldn't have food).  This week, a newlywed couple had us over for dinner and made awesome burgers for us. I ate three (they were small, don't judge). Yesterday we bought some Tacos Polo. It was the first time in like three weeks and I'd missed them dearly. 

So that is what is happening right now in Forjadores!
Have a good week everyone!

*** Step Stats ***

Monday, July 20 - 19419

Tuesday, July 21 - 15969

Wednesday, July 22 - 12940

Thursday, July 23 - 12007

Friday, July 24 - 18226

Saturday, July 25 - 15639

Sunday, July 26 - 8200

Well, Callahan is in first place again. The brothers are pretty impressive ... Daddy dropped off the Top10 completely (back at work, not a lot of stepping at the desk or during the drive). 

*** Between Brothers ***

Just a word from Mommy here ... I generally rearrange the order the boys write and Landon responds, so that the letters are in chronological order (youngest kid to oldest) and consistent each week. This week, I didn't shift things on the letter TO Landon. Keaton wrote first, then Cooper, Keaton and Callahan (Callahan IS consistently last to write after I remind him). I did rearrange the letters here, but you'll note Landon mentions writing Keaton first (in response to his first letter) and commenting on Colton's description of the Pixals movie (which Keaton and Cooper had mentioned but hadn't explained in detail as Colton did). Landon's comments don't make quite as much sense in my reordered copy here on the blog. :)

Dear Landon, on the 24th, we did a lot of fireworks. I was surprised that Mom and Dad bought some. Joy and Oreo have been a bit nicer that usual, they both were sleeping on mom's bed a the same time. Also, we let them both out at the same time, Joy would mostly attack Oreo then run away and Oreo would follow her, every time Joy would swat at Oreo, he would like defend himself by putting his paw up. We saw a movie called Pixels. It was awesome. About the movie, some humans sent a time capsule into space and some aliens found it and they thought it was a way of attacking them. So they sent down real life video games to attack back. There were 3 battles. The first one the humans didn't know about so the Pixels won that battle but every battle won would get a trophy. If the Pixels won, they would take one of the humans of the city, but if the humans won, they would get a video game character. The part I mostly liked was one of the battles, where pac-man was destroying the city then the people said, "The only way to take pac-man down is with ghosts." So they got some cars that are called ghosts and they had to hit pac-man 3 times. FNAF 4 CAME OUT (not for the ipod though...) We have been watching Markiplier play it. He's already on night 5! Today we had a great dinner! We had, mashed potatoes, chicken, stake and, rolls. And for dessert, we had scookie! This week we also went to Krispy Kreme's and got, 3 boxes of glazed donuts, (dropped one box off at Maga's house) and we got a box of chocolate, maple and cinnamon. That's about it for this week. Love, Colton

Dear Landon, dad did not come Monday night, he actually came a day after in the afternoon. He brought a lot of stuff home, but my favorite thing he brought was the shirts. And right when he came home he asked the question, "Where's Joy?" So Joy is living in Keaton's room now, because my room has a lot more hiding spots. Also, Joy and Oreo have gotten along with each more. But this time, it was Joy attacking and hissing at Oreo, which was weird. And while they were both sleeping in mom's room, they woke up, and kind of started whacking each other, and it was pretty funny. And we finally got to see the movie Pixels, because it came out a couple of days ago. It was a very funny movie and it was very dramatic. We also had the good dinner today with steak, chicken, and MASHED POTATOES. It was so delicious, too bad you are not going to have it in the next 1 and a half years. And a few days ago we went to Krispy Kreme's. I never thought that donuts could be that good, especially the sample donuts! FNAF 4 came out unexpectedly this week, so we have been watching the videos of it! It is the scariest game yet in the series, and you are not in an office, you're in a bedroom playing as a kid. And I hope in a little while it will come out to IOS. Love, Cooper

Dear Landon, dad got home last Tuesday at about noon. And since dad isn't allowed to bring a razor to the airport, he came home with a pretty hefty beard. He brought us all candy and shirts, and he got me a weird high-pitched/quacking noise toy thing. It's really fun! It's about one cm and I just put it on my tongue and either blow or suck in. We had a BBQ tonight with Maga, Livi, Ana, and the boys, but Callahan had to work. He didn't get any. We moved Joy into my room so she can't get lost as easily. We chose my room over Cal's because mine is about 5x cleaner than his room. Even with the kitten's toys and litter box! I suppose that you didn't hear fireworks two days ago. We lit the rest of our fireworks with Kaden and Nikki watching. Callahan had to work again, so he didn't see any fireworks at home. We also got new neighbors in the Sextons' house... again. Still, no teenage boy. We saw the move Pixels a few days ago. It was a lot funnier than I had expected. It took Cooper and Colton's first place spot in movies-watched-in-theaters. Dad and I still think that Inside Out was funnier. Pixels had a lot of funny characters. Like: Kevin James, the Bed Time Stories guy, the voice of Olaf the snowman, and the midget in Elf. So yeah... it was pretty fun. Wuv, Keaton  -Oh, and we also went Krispy Kreme doughnuts while the hot light was on. I've waited thousands of years for that... it seems like.

Dear Landon, Dad is home from Europe which is nice, but I still haven't seen him that much. On the 24th I worked a lot, I had to work at KFC for 4 hours and then work a Real game. I didn't get home till 12:45. I got a couple Krispy Kreme donuts in between my shift at KFC and the Real game. Then Dad did a barbecue on Sunday which was mean because I had to work that night. He did cook up a steak right before I left though, which was nice. There is plenty leftover without you there or me there. Oreo has been adjusting to the kitty better now. She hasn't, but he has. I went to a farewell for a friend that all my friends used to play with last year, His name is Josh Ward and he is going to Salem Oregon. It was nice to hear him speak and see him again. I hadn't seen him for a while. Your mission is flying by and lets keep it that way. Love and miss you .

• Dear Colton: That is a bit surprising that the parents would buy fireworks! That is good that the kitties are getting along better. Now you get to see them play together, which is a lot funner. Finally! Someone explains what the movie Pixels is about! The only thing I know about it, is a picture at the movie theater of a giant Pac Man eating a city. Now it makes a lot more sense! Haha I bet that you are dying to play it huh? I miss that dinner so much. There is Krispy Kreme's in Puebla I think... Just HAVE TO find it! 
• Dear Cooper: You always got to have souvenirs, especially from a trip to Europe! Luckies.. Haha so he already knew about Joy.. That is good that they're doing better together. What is Pixels about anyway? Oh man. I do miss that legendary dinner.. Is that your first time with Krispy Kreme Donuts? They are the best in the world! Sounds like a pretty scary game.. You'll have to enjoy it for me!
• Dear Keaton: Weird, I've never written you first. Haha yeah, I can tell in the pictures that that is true. Haha so you are the one that gets to sleep with the new kitty! Haha well, there are always still fireworks here in Puebla.. More new neighbors in the Sexton home? Wow. What is Pixels about anyway? I need to know if that if one I need to see when I return. Haha. Sounded like a good week! So that is good.
• Dear Callahan: That is the working life.. Ain't it awesome? There is a Krispy Kreme donuts somewhere in Puebla I believe.. Or at least I hope! Haha yeah, with you and me not there to partake of the steak, I can imagine a lot of leftovers. I know.. It is going pretty fast. This change flew by. Next week is the end of the change. Honestly... I am praying to have changes!

Week #22 - A Peek in the Journal

Sometimes Landon doesn't get a general email letter off ... but Mommy and the brothers still receive a letter. Often he'll include some snapshots of his journal entries to let us know what he's been up to, without having to rewrite it all. So this week, that's what you get, a quick compilation of some of his activities from our Elder's journal ...

We often have several appointments, but so many of them fall through. That can be a little tough. On a good note, one of our investigators, Hector, gave us 10 ties! He said "well you wear ties every day and I have never worn a tie in my life" ... so, new ties! They are nice ones too. At district meeting, we had a little celebration for one of the sister's birthdays. Juice, chips and a simple cake. That is a missionary birthday party. We had a second one later in the week. Yea cake!

We spent some time in service this week. One day we helped one of the members move stuff. One item was a dental chair, which was a beast! Another day we helped another member break down some wooden frames. We had to remove all the nails and I was able to do it pretty fast due to my experience in framing. I got to break a bunch of glass too. That was surprisingly fun, and we left without any cuts. 

A little shop opened up nearby, selling bags, purses, luggage, etc. I bought a backpack, which I've been wanting/needing. I've been reading "Our Search for Happiness" by M. Russell Ballard. I've been attending choir practice, which doesn't exactly make me happy. And there has been a return of the rain this week. Some super storms.

I've been out for FIVE months now. Time flies!

 Here is Landon with a little friend ...

*** Step Stats ***

Monday, July 13 - 24693

Tuesday, July 14 - 13754

Wednesday, July 15 - 13949

Thursday, July 16 - 8389

Friday, July 17 - 10077

Saturday, July 18 - 11083

Sunday, July 19 - 6010

Elder Blackham dropped down to the seventh spot this week. Grayson was #1  for almost the entire week. He's been off it Italy, Rome and Barcelona, getting substantial steps as he was seeing all the sights. But ... traveling today dropped him a couple spots. Callahan spent the morning golfing then playing basketball, and that pushed him to the top. Curt (our neighbor and former bishop) moved up, even beating his wife (Terrilynne). Aunt Wendy and Uncle Chris made the top 10 too.  Just spoke with Grandma and Grandpa Westra's Fitbit is having some issues (also syncing with a new computer) ... even after the heart attack a couple weeks ago, Grandpa's steps seemed low.  Always fun to see how the steps stack up. 

*** Between Brothers ***

Dear Landon, this week was fun. My basketball game I won 28-23. In the 2nd quarter, it was tied 6-6 and then we got a 12-0 run! They started coming back but we were still making baskets. It was 26-23 we were  winning, and then my teammate Luke, got another basket so I said to myself, "Yep, game's over." I had to go to scout camp twice this week! The first one was just regular scout camp, but the other one was Star Wars. Jedi Camp. In the first one I did bb guns, a hike, games, digging for gold, smores, and an obstacle course. In Jedi Camp we did, rockets, build a "droid", a game called jeopardy, lightsaber fight, and another obstacle course. Maga got a new kitty! Her name is Princess. She is really cute. She mostly hid under Amare's bed though. Our ducks are almost full size! I can barley tell which is which. I was saving this for last, we got a new kitten!! Her name is Joy. And she is SO small and cute! But Oreo does not like her.  He has been hissing and growling. So we make Oreo sleep upstairs, and I think he likes it. One time he almost attacked Joy but we got him. That's the end of the week, love ya. Love, your youngest brother, Colton

Dear Landon, Maga got a brand new cat named Princess Tiana. We went there today to go see her, and her cat. But  the bad thing about her, is that she is very shy and scared of us. For the time that we were at Maga's house, she spent about 95% of the time under the bed. Dad had extended his trip in Europe, but he is coming back tomorrow night. And do you remember when dad was on his trip to Las Vegas and we got Oreo. Now he is on another trip, so we thought, why don't we do it again? And we actually did get another kitty! Her name is Joy, she is very small,  cute, and playful. But Oreo really hates her. He'll hiss and smell her a lot, but Joy is living in mine and Colton's room right now, and Oreo will be upstairs sleeping with mom. But don't worry, we still love Oreo as much as we do Joy :). The NBA Summer League is coming to an end with the championship being tomorrow. The final game will be San Antonio against Phoenix, and I want the Spurs to win this game. And in Omega ruby, I beat the Pokemon league! I kind of changed my party from Altaria to Latios. And I didn't have Metagross because, I do not know where to find a Beldum. So know I need to complete the Delta Episode, which will be really hard to do. Love, Cooper

Dear Landon, dad ended extending his vacation out of the country in Barcelona! He doesn't get home 'til tomorrow night. We figured that since we got Oreo when he was away, why not get a second kitty while he was away? Lol. It was mom's idea. Her name is Joy and she is like six inches long! Oreo doesn't like her, though. He's been hissing at the sight and smell of her. It's really funny when he hisses. Pedro is doing just as fine as the other two duckies. Except, he's naturally afraid of everyone, when Alex and Andy aren't. Pedro has a black bill. Maga also got a new kitty. She is way more shy and scared than Joy. Her name is Princess Tiana. Princess was Addie's idea and Tiana was Aidan's idea. Maga had me get her from under Amare's bed twice. It took a while to bait her out of the corner with a hanger. So yeah... Wuv, Keaton

Dear Landon, Keaton got me playing Pokemon Revolution again which is pretty funny, I'll probably stop playing pretty soon because I'll get bored but who knows. I took the bros bowling and I got a triple in both games we played because I'm absolutely amazing. Then I hung out with some friends and we played some sand volleyball at night which was way fun! My team lost the 5 game series 3-2 but oh well. Mom kept getting red velvet cupcakes which are so dang amazing, I love them with all my heart. Amanda kept talking about stuff about her childhood so I kept thinking about it too. I kept thinking of songs we used to listen to as little kids like Now that we Found Love, and Sweet Dreams. For some reason those are the first two to come to mind. Hope you get more action in the mission field next week and some more rain because I bet you like a little moisture. Love you bro

• Dear Colton: Very nice. Keep up the good work on the basketball court! I remember those scout camps, they are a ton of fun! I never went to Jedi Camp (I don't think that it existed back then..) But I did go to a space one, which is pretty similar. Maga and you guys got a new kitty?! Whose idea was that? Hahah I don't it was Dad's.. Oh no.. That's a bugger when cats don't get along.. Maybe Oreo just needs some time. He is use to being the man of the house.. Haha. Well.. Good luck! 
• Dear Cooper: Yup.. I heard from Colton that Maga AND you guys got new kitties! Just give it time with Princess. She is adapting to the new environment.. The same with Oreo and Joy. Oreo is use to being solo, and the man of the house. Just give it time, I hope it will work out. Summer League.. Just the rookies and sophomores play right? Haha I don't remember which game I was playing.. But I believe I have a shiny Metagross... Maybe you can find it! 
• Dear Keaton: Haha that is a pretty brilliant idea, while Daddy is away. PLEASE tell me how he reacts! I am dying to know Ha! Ah Oreo.. He needs to chill out a bit.. How old is Oreo now, and how old is Joy? What if when Joy becomes an adult, they have kittens!? Ahhhh.. Kitten love. Triste (Poor) Pedro.. Haha Princess Tiana.. That is.... Interesting. You guys should've asked me for some awesome Mexican name for Joy! Well.. "Joy" en español es "gozo" pero.. Joy is a girl, so "Goza"...? Haha maybe..
• Dear Callahan: I remember Pokemon Revolution.. That is a pretty fun game. Triples? Dang.. That is pretty good! Haha, volleyball is pretty amazing. I just miss being able to play beach volleyball. It is the best there is. Dang so close.. Red velvet? Be careful.. Those can fatten you up really fast! Haha the song that always reminds me of you is UP, but I don't remember who it is by.. But that was when you were a lot younger. Another one of my favorite things of our childhood is when I would do ridiculous things to make you laugh! It was always hilarious. Tenga una buena semana, mi hermano.

Week #21 - Utah Took Our Rain!

Well, there really isn't much to write about. Every Sunday night, we call our district leader and tell him our numbers for the week. I added up all the numbers for this week and ... they are ugly. I am feeling a bit discouraged. As far as weather though, it sounds like that you guys (Utah) took our rain for this week! We didn't get a day of rain these past few days! It was so hot. Not sure what I prefer. Rain or heat...

 So happy to get some photos up.

Intercambios con E. Pineda (mi hermano)!

Switching to skim milk after this (26.4 = overweight)

*** Step Stats ***

Step numbers
for the week weren't bad though!

Monday, July 6 ...17459

Tuesday, July 7 ... 15715

Wednesday, July 8 ... 15764

Thursday, July 9 ... 19033

Friday, July 10 ... 13966

Saturday, July 11 ... 18975

Sunday, July 12 ... 9799

Look there ... Grayson is in the #3 spot! He's in Italy this week, and had a huge day on Friday (over 35k that day). He's been walking around a lot. And Grandpa Westra is back in the Top10 too!

*** Between Brothers ***

Dear Landon, this week was a lazy week. In my basketball game yesterday, I lost 21-18. There was about three seconds left on the clock, and there were three people, me, my teammate Collin and someone on the other team. Collin had the ball the other guy was defending him. Collin was SO close by passing it to me but the other guy blocked so it was game over. So right now in my season, I have 2 wins and 2 losses. Dad has left on an airplane to Italy! And Maddie and Mia are there too. The ducks are almost all the same size now! Cooper found a dove living right under the steps in our back yard. But then we saw the saddest thing. We saw the bird on the grass with a lot of his feathers off and his head ripped off. We all think it was a magpie who did it. We saw a movie that was really funny called Minions. This movie was placed before Despicable me. Three minions out of like 5 thousand, went on an adventure to find the greatest super villain to work for. In that movie they found Grew. That is it for this week, love ya. Love, Colton

Dear Landon, I chose to be lazy this week, so not a lot of stuff to tell you. But there was some storms this week that had me kind of scared, but not a lot. All the days this week were sunny at first, and then a storm in the afternoon. We went bowling once this week, but it was cut short because Jacob was waiting for us at Gene Fullmer. So we first played some basketball for about 2 hours, then we went swimming for an hour. Guess what? Pokemon has made a comeback... for me at least. So I have started to play Omega Ruby again, and I have already got past from where I was at last time! I am trying to get everyone in my party to have a Mega Evolution. Right now, I'm thinking my party will be: Blaziken, Gallade, Manetric, Aggron, Altaria, and Mawile. And when we let the ducks out, I saw a little bird under our doorstep in the backyard. It was a cute and small bird probably hiding, or probably living there. And when Colton came back from his game, I wanted to show him it. When we got there, it was not there, so I figured it flew off. But when I turned around, there was its body with feathers everywhere, and it did not even have a head anymore. It was not Oreo, so the main suspect is the Magpie. It was so sad, Rest in Peace little birdie. And I think you have already heard that Dad has gone to Italy to visit Kolby, Jaime, Maddie, and Mia. He has been there for a few days, but the others have been there for 3 weeks. We have finally got NBA TV, but we only get it for a month because the Summer League only lasts at least a month. We have already watched a whole lot of games, because there is about 6-8 games a day. We went to go see Minions. It was pretty funny, but not how I expected it was going to be. But in a week, Ant Man is coming out, and in two weeks, Pixels is coming out. I am very psyched for more of those movies. Love, Cooper

Dear Landon, not a lot of stuff happened this week. We just went to Gene Fullmer a lot to play basketball and swim. There's been almost no progress towards Episode VII, The Force Awakens, of Star Wars except for a new trailer revealing... almost nothing. There's actually been a lot of thunder storms here, but the ducks didn't seem to care much. The ducks are all almost the same size now, and I'm proud to say that I can tell the difference between them. We still haven't gone wave running yet. I forgot to tell you that we went last week, but couldn't get in because the boat ramp that we use was full. We still went swimming there, though. And Travis came along. Dad went to Italy. I know that you wanted to go there for your mission, which would have been cool because dad might have got to see you. That would be cool. I think we're also getting a new bishopric in our ward. So yeah... boring. Wuv, Keaton

I hope you and your new companion are getting to know each other. So last week I actually made $225ish from real games and KFC. I don't work super long shifts, the most I ever work is around 6 or 7 hours. The one day I worked more was both job, so no overtime. I don't work too much this week. I eat a lot of KFC now, and if I didn't play basketball, I'd get fat super fast. Work hasn't been too bad recently, I would rather do a lot of other things but everyone who works at KFC is really funny and nice. Whenever I close and we have extra food me and Ben take it to some of our friend's families because we eat so much of their food so we give them food. I took the little boys bowling and to Minions the movie. It was a pretty good movie, I think Colton was a little upset with it, but he'll get over it. Dad is in Italy which makes me jealous just because of the food. I bet the food is just amazing. I'll never know I guess, haha. I turned in my early morning seminary application a little while ago, and it kinda makes me cringe when I think about getting up early, even though I've been getting up around 8 everyday. Although some days when I don't even care and just sleep until noon. So it has been a pretty good week. Hope it has been good for you. Love you bro, Callahan

The three younger boys, ready for church, 

with a little Landon influence...

• Dear Colton: Dang, so close.. I KNOW! Dad is one of the luckiest people in the world to go to Italy! I am so jealous right now. Yikes... Is it possible one of the duckies did the damage? I think they are more capable to "rip a head off" than a magpie. Haha I am aware of the movie Minions.. Mexico loves Minions.. They have Minion everything! I have a Minion binder.. ;). Anyway, have more fun this week!
• Dear Cooper: Yes, Mom told me about the rain. It is exactly like Puebla! But it sounds like you guys took our rain, because this week it didn't rain at all. Super hot! You are forgetting the greatest Pokemon ever! Metagross! Poor little birdie.. That is a lot of games to watch! I want to see Minions so bad! Ant Man seems a little... Weird.. Haha but hey, if you want to watch it, go ahead!
• Dear Keaton: The same thing here. A week of nothing! We just went walking, and walking, and walking.. Haha I am proud of you too. How is my Pedro doing? Still no wave running yet?! Poor Susie and Roxy. Haha I didn't really want to serve in Italy. Just vacation. Because Italian is super difficult to learn. But I am definitely going to vacation there some day.
• Dear Callahan: Be careful with all that chicken....be sure to be exercising a lot! That is good that you enjoy your work. I know. I am super jealous about Dad in Italy too.Well for early morning seminary I woke up at 4:50-ish I think... so have fun with that! Keep up the good work.